Friday, March 11, 2016

Random Thoughts & Tips

Hey guys, its been a while since I've written a blog.  It's winter, and I get crabby.  But the weather has changed and so has my mood!  Here are a few random things going on in my head and in my world:


Starting seeds
Yep, it's time to start seeds for the garden.  Technically, Im behind by a few weeks for the longest germinating little guys, but it is what it is.  As I've said before, I can get most of what I need at the farmer's market and flowers stores.  The plants are in better shape, and probably cheaper after factoring in electricity for the grow light.  At $3 a pop, sometimes 4 for $10, that's the way to go.  But every year I start the seeds anyway.  I think after our long, cold, winters, I just need to GROW something!   GROW FOREST GROW!!




Starting Whole 30 .... again
I've also decided I want to get rid of my winter body.  So I've restarted my Whole 30 diet from a few years ago.  The plan is actually set up to rid your body of common food allergens, and then add them back in one group at a time, in order to see which food types affect you.  Since I've already don't that, and Im going it for weight loss reasons, I'm going to be a tiny bit more lenient.  Im still going to follow the no grains, no wheat, no dairy, no sugar, no processed, no alcohol, no legumes, no peanuts (no fun).  But I am still going to allow myself a little honey, since I think it is good for my body.  I will not be making my own ketchup (sugar).  Im not going to beat myself up for eating salad dressing from a restaurant that probably has sugar in it.  I may have a small amount of corn in the form of corn tortillas for tacos, and that's about it.

The first few days have been the hardest as my body adjusts.  I have been a little bit tired, with no carbs as an energy supply.  I also have to remember to eat more.  I know, weird, right?  I have planned out my month of dinners so that I am never stuck without dinner.  Basically lots of roasted and grilled meats and fish.  I also have portioned out almond butter, and have apples and celery (as well as pistachios and cashews, on hand for snacks.  I tried eating hard boiled eggs, but I just don't like them.  So I'll still make them, but turn them into egg or potato salad for lunch.   I also have premade smoothie bags full of frozen fruit and veggies in the freezer so I can grab and go with a protein, fiber, smoothie.  Im not going to lie, this diet takes some weekly prep work.

I'll let you know how I do!
P.S.  I am eating WAY more than I ate before to stay full before.  My friend, and natural food guru, Katy, says it's because I don't have the grains bloating my belly and making me feel full.

Today's breakfast:  2 eggs scrambled with sweet potatoes, onions, carrots, garlic, basil, and turmeric.  Fried white and sweet potatoes with natural ketchup.  Fresh strawberries.    Pretty damn good.





Random Tips & Tricks


Tip #1 - Have you ever thought "is this egg still good?"
Here's a great way to tell - take a medium sized bowl and fill it with water.  Gently put the raw egg in the water.  If it sinks, its fresh.  If it stand on its end on the bottom, it's not super fresh but it's still good.  If it floats to the top, its time to throw it away, or in your compost heap!

Tip #2 - Cutting an avocado for a sandwich or guacamole
Pretty easy actually.  Cut it to the skin all the way around.  Open.  Whack the knife (sharp side, not tip) into the pit so it sticks, and twist.  Bang it against the trash to release.  Now with the avocado in your hand, use the knife to cut slices through the avocado down to the rind.  The rind is thick, so if you do this gently, you won't cut through.  If you want slices, use a spoon to scoop it out, and it is pre-sliced! If you want mashed, continue to cut in the opposite direction so you have cubes.  Now use the back of your spoon to smoosh the cubes right in it's shell.  Then scoop out your avocado mush!  Voila!

Tip #3 - Love fresh minced garlic?
Take this tip that I got from Rachel Ray - use a small-hole grater!  I now usually use a grater for this small task.  Just remember to rotate the clove or you will get stuck with a few larger pieces.  BONUS:  When you are done grating, rinse the grater under water and then rub your garlicky fingers along the safe side.  Under nails if necessary.  It will get rid of the garlic smell on your skin.

Tip #4 - Non-watered down drink
If you have leftover coffee or white wine (I know, who would possibly have leftover wine?), pour the leftovers into an ice cube tray.  They will be ready the next time you make iced coffee or need to cool down a glass of wine, and you won't be watering them down!


Enough of randomness for one day!
Enjoy your Spring!  Get outside!

Peace.  Love.  Serene.